Follow the Clark Fork River through Sanders County, where small towns, river access, hot springs and wide-open landscapes set the pace. This road trip along Western Montana’s Clark Fork Corridor is shaped by water recreation, history and local culture.

STOP FOR A SOAK

Start with a reset in Paradise at Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort. Soak in five natural hot springs pools, plus a cold plunge and two heated saltwater pools. Grab a meal at Harwood House or Quinn’s Tavern, then settle in for the night in a cabin or lodge room (book well in advance). While you’re in Paradise, take a short drive to The Paradise Center, a historic school building turned community center and museum. Find exhibits on Glacial Lake Missoula, regional rail history and more. Take time to explore the outdoor walking trail, featuring interpretive panels that connect the landscape to the area’s history.

Relish the soothing waters and mountain views at Quinn’s Hot Springs. Photo: Chance Jackson

PLAINS

In Plains, stop at Ripples Ice Cream Parlor for salads, soups, flatbreads, pizza and Montana-made ice cream. At Wild Horse Mercantile, browse a mix of antiques and one-of-a-kind finds. Spend some time along the Clark Fork River—fish or find a quiet stretch by the water. Nearby public access sites and parks make it easy to find outdoor adventure.

Plains, Montana welcomes travelers. Stop for an ice cream cone, a round of golf or to stay the night.

HOT SPRINGS

Soak up some more Montana at Symes Hot Springs Hotel and Mineral Baths in Hot Springs, with hot and cold outdoor pools, antique-filled rooms, rustic cabins, dining, beer and wine, plus an espresso bar. For another soaking option, visit Wild Horse Hot Springs. Stop by Camas Organic Market for baked goods, breakfast, lunch and organic groceries.

A Mission-style hotel built in 1930, Symes Hot Springs is one of the West’s last surviving grand resort hotels.

THOMPSON FALLS

In Thompson Falls, explore Thompson Falls State Park with a fishing pond, wildlife viewing and easy nature walks. Nearby, visit Island Park, the High Bridge and the Thompson Falls Dam. Grab a meal at Minnie’s Montana Cafe, then head to Limberlost Brewing Company for a craft beer. The Old Jail Museum and Sunflower Gallery round out a slower-paced afternoon with local history and art.

Stop at the Sunflower Gallery while you’re visiting Thompson Falls.

TROUT CREEK

Visit Trout Creek, known as the huckleberry capital of Montana, and stay at The Shire of Montana. This one-of-a-kind lodging experience is inspired by The Hobbit, with detailed cabins and an Elven-style village that lights up after dark. Trout Creek is a popular base camp for boating on the south end of the Noxon Reservoir.

Trout Creek provides access to the Noxon Reservoir.

NOXON

Cross the historic Noxon Bridge and explore Noxon Reservoir—swim, fish or take in the views. At Montana’s Eagle Experience, get an up-close look at bald and golden eagles, along with rare encounters with a martial eagle and African hawk-eagle. For food and drinks, stop at The Hereford Bar & Grill.

The historic Noxon Bridge leads travelers into the small community of Noxon. Photo: Christian Sawicki

HERON

Walk among towering old-growth trees at Ross Creek Cedars Scenic Area in Heron. This 100-acre grove includes cedars more than 1,000 years old, reaching up to 8 feet in diameter and 175 feet tall. A 0.9-mile self-guided loop offers an easy walk with interpretive signage along the way.

The immense Ross Creek Cedars always mesmerize. Photo: Andy Austin

Please note: We ask that all our visitors and residents recreate responsibly by being mindful of the following: know before you go; plan ahead; play it safe; leave no trace; tread lightly; and help build an inclusive outdoors.

April 6, 2026

Related: Birding, Breweries, Clark Fork Corridor, Dining, Heron, Hot Springs, Hot Springs (town), Montana, Noxon, Outdoor Fun, Paradise, Plains, Road Trips, Shopping, Stay, Thompson Falls, Trout Creek, Vacation, Wildlife

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